Republican To Challenge 5-Term Democrat In 2026 Congressional Race In NoVA

ARLINGTON, VA — Republican Antony “Tony” Sabio, a security specialist who worked for both the CIA and Secret Service, announced on Wednesday that he would be challenging incumbent U.S. Rep. Don Beyer (R-8th) in the 2026 election.

“Tony Sabio is not a career politician - he's a battle-tested patriot who has dedicated his life to serving and protecting the American people,” Sabio’s campaign website. “With over two decades of experience in the U.S. Military, the Secret Service, and the CIA, Tony has operated in the shadows to ensure that others could thrive in the light of freedom.”

Sabio is the CEO and founder of RockFinn Group LLC, which provides professional security protection. Prior to that, he spent six years on active duty in the U.S. military and five years in the reserves. He also worked for the U.S. Secret Service for five years and 11 years at the CIA.

“His mission has always been clear: defend this nation, protect its people, and uphold the Constitution - no matter the cost,” according to the website. “He believes that common sense should guide our decisions in government, and that leaders must prioritize Country Before Politics.”

In 2023, Sabio ran for the Providence District seat on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. He was defeated by incumbent Karl Frische, who was endorsed by the Democratic Party. Frische was later elected to be the board president.

A five-term incumbent, Beyer represents Virginia’s 8th Congressional District, which spans Arlington, Alexandria, Falls Church, and portions of Fairfax County. Prior to that he was Virginia’s lieutenant governor from 1990-1998.

The nonprofit Virginia Public Access Project describes the 8th District as “Strong Democratic.”

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